Trend Micro’s Top Web Threats For 2013

Cupertino, Calif. – Trend Micro has released a report on the top Internet-security trends for consumers and businesses for 2013.

Leading the pack is the high volumne of malware targeted at Android apps. Trend Micro is expecting more than 1 million such pieces of malware to be released next year. Helping expand the cybercriminals activity is Android’s increasing popularity, which gives scammers more reason to attack the operating system.

Trend Micro praised Microsoft for the improved security delivered with Windows 8 and the fact that apps in the Windows Store have to be approved by Microsoft before being accessed by the public.

Cloud services are also expected to come under heavy attack in 2013. Cloud services like Google Docs, Dropbox, Facebook and Twitter have already been attacked and Trend Micros sees no let up in the coming year.

The cloud will also prove a difficult place for businesses to fend off attacks as the processes they used in server farms will not be as effective in the cloud.

Attacks may also strike via new platforms such as a smart TV running Android, iOS or Windows. Trend Micro said that since TV makers have not had to deal with such attacks in the past they may be less adept at finding and blocking this activity.

The actual success of the mobile computing category also works against consumer. As people use more and more devices securing them all becomes an issue. In addition, while most understand that their computer is at risk to an attack many consumers do not know their phones and tablets are also vulnerable.

Foreign powers could also launch politically motivated attacks aimed at the local infrastructure.

Many governments are not yet ready to battle cybercrime, something that Trend Micro does not expect to be rectified until 2015.

Finally, the company believes Africa will become the new home for cybercrimnals as they flee prosecution in their home countries. This threat will grow as that continents Internet infrastructure expands.

All these threats will require a very proactive response on the part of consumers and businesses, the report stated. People must ensure their security software is up to date, passwords are secure and that all of their web-enabled devices are protected.